Today we’d like to introduce you to Eliza Biglete

Hi Eliza, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Basketball has always been my sanctuary, a constant thread weaving through the fabric of my life. However, my journey into sports photography has revealed a broader canvas of possibilities, leading me to explore diverse niches beyond the basketball court.

Growing up, basketball was more than just a game—it was a shared passion, a language spoken between friends and family. From shooting hoops in grade school to bonding over televised games with my brother and dad, basketball was ingrained in my upbringing.

Before immersing myself in photography, I briefly worked at Pizza Hut, driven solely by the desire to save money. Although short-lived, this laid the groundwork for funding my newfound passion. Little did I know, those savings would provide the financial backing for my photography endeavors.

The Covid-19 lockdown brought a wave of uncertainty, but amidst the chaos, it also offered an opportunity to delve into photography. It all started when my friend Marcell invited me to take pictures at a basketball game at Tarkanian. With my camera, I roamed the court, striving to find the perfect angles. Despite realizing later that my camera settings were completely off, the positive feedback of my edited photos by Marcell and his friends sparked a newfound zeal within me.

As I devoted countless hours to perfecting my craft—editing until the early hours of the morning and fueling my creativity with energy drinks—I immersed myself into the possibilities of my passion. Riding Ubers to various photoshoots became routine, each journey a testament to my commitment to my craft.

At just 16 years old and still in high school, I encountered individuals who recognized potential in me that I had yet to realize. This exposure to a world of opportunities, coupled with interactions with accomplished athletes, reshaped my trajectory. Although I had initially planned to pursue college after high school, this experience shifted me into a different lane.

Yet, beyond the realm of basketball lies a deeper truth—a narrative of resilience, passion, and the belief in endless possibilities. My journey as a photographer extends far beyond the boundaries of the basketball court. While basketball remains a vital part of my narrative, my lens now captures a diverse array of subjects—ranging from fashion, portraits, and lifestyle photography.

Each venture into a new niche presents its own set of challenges and rewards, enriching my journey as a photographer and shaping my identity as an artist. Through this evolution, I’ve come to realize that the only limit is the one I set for myself.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

One of the biggest struggles was finding a balance between meeting the expectations of clients and staying true to my own creative vision. There were times when I felt torn between delivering what clients wanted and expressing myself authentically through my work. This inner conflict often led to moments of self-doubt and frustration. Also, managing the day-to-day aspects of running a photography business, such as marketing, finances, and client communications, added another layer of complexity to the journey.

Transitioning from photography as a hobby to a profession wasn’t just about learning new skills. It was also about dealing with self-doubt. Despite knowing the quality of my work, there were moments when I lost confidence in my abilities. It was frustrating—I believed in what I could do, but I couldn’t figure out why certain opportunities weren’t coming my way. Instead of letting my pride get in the way, I took a step back to figure things out. It wasn’t easy, but it taught me that success isn’t just about talent—it’s also about perseverance and resilience.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I am a dedicated and versatile photographer specializing in both sports and lifestyle photography. My expertise spans from capturing the dynamic energy of basketball and football games to the sophisticated elegance of fashion and lifestyle shoots. While I am widely recognized for my sports photography, particularly in basketball, my portfolio also showcases a diverse range of work in fashion and lifestyle imagery.

One aspect of my career that I am most proud of is my perseverance and unwavering commitment to my craft. No matter the challenges, I have always maintained a strong work ethic, continuously hustling and striving to improve – personally and professionally. This determination and resilience not only fuel my passion but also set me apart in a competitive field.

Clients and collaborators often commend me for my easygoing nature, making me a pleasure to work with on any project. I believe in creating a positive and collaborative environment, ensuring that everyone involved feels comfortable and valued. This approach not only fosters creativity but also leads to the best possible outcomes.

My distinct approach to photography, blending skill with artistic vision, creates compelling images that resonate with my audience. In addition, I pride myself on my swift turnaround time, delivering content right away. This promptness ensures that clients can quickly use and share the photos, enhancing their overall experience.

Combining my strong work ethic with cooperative attitude, I strive to deliver exceptional results while building lasting relationships. My dedication to both the art and the hustle of photography, along with my efficient delivery, truly sets me apart from others in the field.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?

I’ve used Instagram and other social media platforms to connect with photographers, athletes, and coaches, which has really helped me expand my network. On a more personal level, my brother has been my biggest mentor. He’s always supported me, ensuring I have everything I need to keep pursuing photography. He’s shared his knowledge and experience with me, guiding me every step of the way. For anyone looking to network, I recommend being active on social media, engaging with others in your field, and attending industry events. Building genuine relationships and offering help when you can go a long way in creating a strong professional network. Working extremely hard and saying yes to a lot of opportunities has also been key. Practicing my craft every day and taking on as many shoots as possible has not only improved my skills but also introduced me to amazing people along the way.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/ElizaBiglete

Image Credits

Personal Photo shot by Aj Diallo